Hanley Center raises $155,000 at luncheon

March 11, 2009

The emphasis was on fun for the whole family while helping to raise money for a good cause as the Hanley Center Foundation had it 14th annual Family Luncheon Feb. 15 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. More than $155,000 was raised for Hanley Center, a chemical dependency treatment facility in West Palm Beach.

Nancy Hooker of Wellington, a competitive show jumper, and Robert Debbs of West Palm Beach served as the event's co-chairpersons. Norberto Azqueta and Dinah Fulton served as vice chairpersons. Neil S. Hirsch was title sponsor. Proceeds from the luncheon will support Hanley Center's campus expansion and its Lifesaver Patient Aid Fund, which provides vital financial assistance to those seeking treatment for alcoholism or chemical dependency but are unable to afford treatment due to limited financial resources or restrictions on insurance coverage.

About 300 people attended this year's Family Luncheon, which has become known as one of the only social events of the season that offers a whole day of fun for the entire family. The day's activities began with a luncheon buffet and silent auctions. As the adults enjoyed exclusive ringside seating for the featured show jumping event, the children were treated to an animal encounter courtesy of the Palm Beach Zoo, a young artist's workshop and magic by David Berardi.

The luncheon also honored Henry (Hank) and Kitty Price of Palm Beach, who have been longtime supporters of the Hanley Center and its treatment programs.